What Makes a School Great?

What makes a school truly great? Join Rod Grant and Cameron Wyllie as they explore the art and craft of teaching, the power of teacher autonomy, and the balance between discipline and care that shapes thriving school communities. In this episode, they dive into:

• Why teaching is more than just a science—it’s a craft fueled by passion.
• How strong relationships and collegiality impact both teachers and students.
• The importance of a knowledge-rich curriculum and structured environments.
• How extracurricular activities support student growth and development.

Whether you’re a teacher, school leader, or education enthusiast, this episode offers insightful strategies and real-world reflections on creating schools where everyone thrives. Listen, learn, and discover what makes a school great. Key Takeaways:

• Teaching is both an art and a craft.
• Autonomy fuels great teaching.
• A positive school ethos blends structure with care.
• Students flourish in knowledge-rich, community-minded environments.

Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction to School Leadership Insights 00:54 – The Art and Craft of Teaching 04:14 – The Role of Collegiality in Teaching 08:22 – The Importance of Teacher Autonomy 10:11 – Teacher Training and Qualifications 12:32 – The Need for Practical Teacher Training 16:46 – Creating a Positive School Ethos 20:04 – Discipline and Pastoral Care in Schools 25:14 – The Knowledge-Rich Curriculum 27:51 – Extracurricular Activities and Student Development We'd love to hear your thoughts, stories and questions about schools and education today. Email or send us a voice note to [e-mail]